23 Jul 2004
More than 70 refugee families to enroll in district schools in the fall
DALLAS-As part of its role in helping foreign students in adapting to their new lives in the United States, the Dallas Independent School District's Intake Center will host an open house Thursday, July 29, from 7:30 a.m to 6 p.m to provide information and resources to more than 70 refugee families.
"This is a very good time to receive orientation, because it will be very intensive and during the school year it is difficult to receive this type of help," said Judith Tomes, director, Intake Center.
Natives from countries such as Somalia and Ethiopia and other Middle Eastern countries, will receive orientation about different services and programs offered by DISD and about the district's rules and regulations, such as the student code of conduct. Officials from various departments including counseling, health, psychology, testing and truancy will be available. A visit to Bonham Elementary has been scheduled.
Migratory services also will be provided by representatives from Catholic Charities and the International Rescue Committee. "We encourage families to participate because they can begin to establish a relationship with the representatives from the agencies that helped them come to this country and also with the district's personnel," said Tomes. Guest presentations will begin promptly at 10 a.m. followed by the tour. For more information call 972-749-5760.